“Step back in time. Imagine Senju Motomachi as a bustling post town. It thrived during the Edo period.” Today we explore its echoes.
Senju Motomachi was a key stop. It connected Edo which is now Tokyo to other regions. Travelers rested here. They prepared for their journey. It was the first post town on the Nikko Kaido highway. This road linked Edo to Toshogu Shrine. The shrine honored Tokugawa Ieyasu in Nikko.
Senju also sat on the Mito Kaido. This was another vital road. It connected Edo to Mito. Senju Motomachi served as a vital hub.
Though time has passed little remains of old Senju Motomachi. Markers indicate former important sites. These spots include the town’s honjin and kosatsuba notice board.
Even ichirizuka old distance markers can be found. The haiku poet Matsuo Basho is honored here too. He passed through Senju. This was during his famous journey. He wrote about it in “Oku no Hosomichi”.
A few historical residences still stand. The Former Yokoyama House once sold paper products. Senju Ema Yoshida’s House still makes ema wooden prayer plaques.
Several temples and shrines remain as well. They date back to the Edo period. These include Genchoji Temple and Senju Jinja. These sacred sites let us experience Senju Motomachi’s spiritual side. They show the enduring legacy of its Edo roots.
Kita Senju Station is now a major hub nearby. Several train lines serve it. These include the JR Joban Line and Tokyo Metro’s lines. The station connects Senju to all of Tokyo.
Around Kita Senju Station, a charming atmosphere remains. Parks and local shops abound. You can find many eateries plus university campuses here. Kitasenju Shukubamachi-dori Shotengai is worth a stroll. This old road is now full of shops and restaurants.
Temple lovers should visit Nishiaraidaishi Souji Temple. It’s believed to ward off evil. Its plum, cherry and wisteria flowers are beautiful.
Kita Senju is home to several parks. Toneri Park offers tennis and baseball. Higashi-Ayase Park is known for cherry blossoms. The Adachi Park of Living Things appeals to children.
As an Edo-period post town Senju Motomachi keeps an old-school feel. Alleys around the station are popular for dining and shopping. Shukubamachi-dori Shotengai and Senju Honcho Shotengai are great for exploring.
Kita Senju boasts diverse dining. Numerous small restaurants line the streets. Izakaya and street food stalls offer sushi and grilled meats. Kadoya sells yarikake-dango grilled rice dumplings. Sasaya serves motsuyaki grilled offal.
One of Senju Motomachi’s highlights is the Adachi Fireworks Festival. It takes place in late July. Over 13,000 fireworks launch in one hour. The Arakawa River offers a great viewing spot. The festival displays the vibrant spirit of the Kita Senju community.
Senju Motomachi blends old and new. It provides a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. It has evolved into a vibrant district. Its history as a post town still resonates. Enjoy the journey through time.